DJ Vitamin D, a true hip-hop legend and sonic architect, has been immersed in the culture since he was a youngster grooving to Sugar Hill Gang and King Tim the Third as soon as those records hit the West Coast! But it's Q-Tip who truly ignited his passion, a visionary who infused hip-hop with spiritual jazz and redefined the art of sampling. Vitamin D credits legends like Red Alert and the Jungle Brothers for inspiring his journey, driving him to not just create music, but to spread love through the community with every beat.

One story perfectly encapsulates Q-Tip's enduring impact: during an after-school program at Washington Middle School, one of Vitamin D's students, barely a teenager, chose to mix Tribe Called Quest's "Can I Kick It?"! Imagine the surprise – expecting the latest chart-toppers, he witnessed a 13-year-old connect with a track from '89. It was a powerful reminder of Q-Tip's timeless genius, a legacy that transcends generations. And of course, you can't talk Q-Tip without mentioning J Dilla, the production wizard who elevated his sound, making drum machines sound human and sparking the neo-soul movement.

Vitamin D's journey is also deeply rooted in community and lifelong connections. He shares a bond with Rock Fizzle that stretches back to childhood, fueled by a shared love for Q-Tip and Dilla. Their ongoing debate about who was more influential often leads to epic tributes, celebrating the artists who shaped their lives. And speaking of tributes, don't miss their upcoming event at the Royal Room this Saturday, the 12th! Doors open at 8 PM for a night of musical exploration, where they'll be interpreting these legends' compositions with a live band, including Dylan Rock on drums and vocals, Darius Reach on keys, and Vitamin D himself on turntables. It’s going to be a night of pure musical magic and a celebration of black greatness.

Beyond his artistry, Vitamin D is a champion of community engagement. He supports events by Tish Productions, bridging the gap between generations and ensuring that young people can learn from the OGs. He's also passionate about teaching music production, sharing his knowledge with the next generation at places like Washington Middle School. Whether he's behind the turntables, in the studio, or in the classroom, Vitamin D's mission remains the same: to create great work, foster community, and keep the spirit of hip-hop alive and thriving.